Pray with Laos, June 28, 2026
Lectionary Selection: Matthew 11:16-19, 25-30
Prayers for Laos
Gracious and loving God,
We come before you with grateful hearts, lifting the country of Laos and its people into your loving care. We pray for the nation and its government as Laos continues to build its future and seeks to address the needs of all its people.
We especially bring before you the Christian community in Laos, and the Lao Evangelical Church with its many ministries that bless and uplift the people of the nation. We remember in particular the Church’s educational ministry and the ways it strives to nurture a confident and committed generation of young people. We give thanks for the programs that offer students the additional training and guidance they need to grow in their academic pursuits and in their personal and communal lives.
At this time, we remember the students from the Lao Evangelical Church who are currently engaged in theological training. We pray that they may complete their studies with joy and dedication, and that they may become faithful servants in your vineyard in Laos.
As we are assured in the scripture reading for this day, we ask that you grant rest to all the people of Laos and to all of us who carry heavy burdens. Help us to experience the truth that your yoke is easy and your burden is light.
In the precious name of our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ, we pray, Amen.
Mission Moment from Laos
Laos is a country situated along the banks of the mighty Mekong River, which forms its northwestern and western borders with Myanmar and Thailand, respectively. It also shares borders with China to the north, Vietnam to the east, and Cambodia to the south. Formerly a French colony from the late 19th century until the mid‑20th century, Laos became an independent nation after a long struggle and has been a communist country since 1975.
Laos currently has a population of nearly eight million people, with about thirty percent being youth, making it the most youthful country in Southern Asia. Christians make up less than three percent of the total population. The Lao Evangelical Church (LEC) is one of the government‑recognized religious bodies in the country and is estimated to have around 250,000 members.
In addition to Sunday worship services, Bible study sessions, and spiritual fellowships, the LEC is deeply committed to educational initiatives. These include in‑school and after‑school programs that offer training on topics such as environmental protection, responsible resource use, and the prevention of drug abuse. These programs aim to equip students with both academic competencies and essential life skills.
Theological education remains a significant need. The LEC hopes to establish its own seminary in the future, pending government approval. At present, the church has a theological training school for youth, which prepares pastors for ordination and congregational leadership. A small number of students are pursuing theological studies in neighboring countries, and it is hoped that more young people from the LEC will have opportunities to study abroad until a seminary is established within Laos.
Mission Partners in Laos
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